SKIERS and snowboarders dreaming of swooshing down the slopes, are being urged to take extra precautions this season - and to ensure that they have the right cover in place should anything go wrong.

Michael Schumacher's recent ski accident in France should serve as a timely reminder to all of us of the importance of taking steps to stay safe - and, in particular, just how vital it is to wear a helmet.

While the racing driver's helmet split on impact, it did not shatter or fall off - helping to save his life.

"High-profile cases, such as the death of actress Natasha Richardson in 2009, triggered a major safety campaign," says Amber Howard from insurer HolidaySafe. "More recently, the ex-Formula One driver's accident has yet again raised the debate on the safety concerns surrounding skilled skiers - and whether they should wear helmets."

At present, it is not mandatory to wear a helmet, although certain insurers do insist you wear one.

There is a strong argument for protection when figures from HolidaySafe show head injuries constitute about 5 per cent of all ski-related injuries.

New research by insurer Direct Line along with the Transport Research Laboratory into the damage caused by skiing collisions using crash-test dummies shows that wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of suffering a serious head injury.

The findings revealed that the G-force on the head is about three to four times higher in a skiing collision without a helmet on than with one on, and that in a skiing collision at 30 km/h, not having a helmet could be fatal.

Despite this, new figures from insurer Columbus Direct show that half of all Brits still don't carry any safety gear at all while skiing or snowboarding.

"It surprises me how many people take the risk and do not wear helmets," says Chemmy Alcott, one of the UK's top skiing hopefuls, who is being sponsored by Columbus Direct. "You should always wear a helmet when involved in any snow sports."

Equally, with the Olympic Winter Games in Sochi, Russia, just around the corner, plus new celebrity ski jump TV show, The Jump, starting on Channel 4 tonight, there is no better time to give some serious consideration to your safety on the slopes.

Michael Schumacher's accident in France highlighted the importance of wearing a helmet [EPA]

Skiers and snowboarders should pay close attention to the detail of their policies and ensure that they include winter sports protection such as cover for piste closure, avalanche closure and off-piste skiing

Bob Atkinson from MoneySupermarket.com

CHECK THE MEDICAL COVER OFFERED BY YOUR POLICY

While head injuries are rarely fatal, they do require immediate emergency assistance - making it vital to check the cover your policy offers.

The cost of helicopter mountain rescue across Europe can average £3,000, while the alternative form of mountain rescue, known as a "blood wagon", can cost about £500 in France; this is where you are taken down the mountain on a stretcher and skis.

"In the event of a serious injury where extensive treatment and air ambulance repatriation are needed, the cost could rack up into tens of thousands of pounds," warns Bob Atkinson from MoneySupermarket.com. "It is therefore vital to check whether emergency transport to hospital and back home is included in the policy wording under medical expenses. If in doubt, ask your insurer."

OTHER FEATURES YOU SHOULD LOOK OUT FOR

As well as cover for medical expenses, you should check your winter sports policy offers cover for other standard criteria such as cancellation and baggage cover.

"In addition, you should check you have cover for sports equipment and your ski pass," says Atkinson.

He points out that winter sports policies can vary considerably from one provider to the next, with exclusions and caveats commonplace, as well as differentiating coverage levels.

"It is crucial to scan the small print," he says. "Skiers and snowboarders should pay close attention to the detail of their policies and ensure that they include winter sports protection such as cover for piste closure, avalanche closure and off-piste skiing."

You also need to check the policy covers all the activities you want to try.

"Some policies will exclude bobsleighing and ski jumping," says Beth Macer from adviser PayingTooMuch.com. "Check your policy if you plan on entering any competitions as many insurers will cover you only for non-competitive and non-professional winter sports."

At the same time, those planning multiple winter-sports trips should be aware some policies only cover hitting the slopes for a set number of days per year - or a maximum number of ski trips - so make sure you read the clauses in the small print.

Skiers are advised against taking to the slopes when the snow is icy [ALAMY]

APPLY FOR AN EHIC

If you are planning on heading for the snow in the European Union, a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is another essential, alongside your comprehensive travel insurance.

"This entitles you to state-provided healthcare in European Union member states," says Atkinson. "But it should not be considered a replacement for travel cover."

Equally, if you already hold an EHIC, check it is still in-date ahead of your trip, as they are only valid for up to five years.

Also note that an EHIC renewal or application is entirely free of charge at Nhs.uk or by calling 0300 330 1350 - so don't apply through an unofficial site as they or more than likely to charge you.

If you are hiring equipment, give it a thorough once-over before using it. Check the helmet and any other protective wear is not damaged and is of a high standard.

Elbows, arms, wrists and hands are all sensitive areas - and especially for snowboarders, first-time skiers and children - so look to wear protective gear, guards or straps; also look to wear ski goggles to protect your eyes from ultraviolet rays.

Check that your ski bindings are set according to your weight, as well as your skiing style and speed.

Note that most injuries occur between noon and 4pm - usually after lunch - with tiredness and alcohol two of the major risk components.

Given that most snowboarding accidents are caused by jumping from heights, usually in snow parks, make sure you get some basic training to make controlled landings - and to learn how to recover from a loss of control.

When the snow is icy, steer clear of black runs.

Keep a mobile phone or two-way walkie-talkie radio with you for mountain communications and make a note of the emergency number for the resort. Always ski with other people. Where this is not possible, tell someone where you are heading and arrange to meet them when you have finished.

If you plan on going off-piste, it is well worth hiring a guide to keep you safe; also ensure all group members carry the relevant gear, such as avalanche equipment.

Follow piste guidelines, as many policies will not cover you if you are injured or have an accident if you have been deliberately careless or negligent.

Do not hit the slopes drunk. This could lead to serious accidents, and could invalidate any claim you try to make.